An Essential Guide to Tokyo's Main Airports: Haneda and Narita
Tokyo is a vibrant metropolis renowned for its unique blend of modern and traditional elements, serviced by two primary airports: Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT). Each airport offers distinct advantages depending on your travel needs. This guide will delve into the two international airports in Tokyo, highlighting the differences between Narita and Haneda to help you choose the best option for your trip.
Haneda Airport (Tokyo International Airport)
Haneda Airport (HND), situated in Ota, Tokyo, is one of the two main airports serving the Greater Tokyo Area. Renowned for its efficiency, cleanliness, and comprehensive facilities, Haneda primarily catered to domestic flights until the launch of its international terminal in 2010. It is now ranked among the busiest airports in the world.
Location
Haneda is located in Ota, Tokyo, Japan, approximately 14 kilometers (about 8.7 miles) south of Tokyo Station, the city's central train hub. Its proximity to the city center offers quicker and easier access to major Tokyo areas compared to Narita International Airport, which is further away. This makes Haneda a favored option for travelers aiming to reach the heart of Tokyo swiftly, as well as for those connecting to domestic flights within Japan.
How to reach Haneda
Haneda is easily accessible via public transport: the Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Line connect directly to the Tokyo city center, with travel times as brief as 13 minutes to Hamamatsucho Station using the Monorail. Additionally, Airport Limousine buses serve numerous locations throughout Tokyo and its suburbs, and taxis are also an option—though they tend to be pricier.
Airport Terminals
Haneda Airport features three terminals: two for domestic flights (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2) and one for international flights (Terminal 3). The terminals are linked by the Keikyu Line, the monorail, complimentary shuttle buses, and an underground passage between Terminals 1 and 2.
- Terminal 1, affectionately dubbed “Big Bird,” primarily accommodates flights from Japan Airlines (JAL) and various other local carriers. It features a six-story dining and shopping complex known as 'Market Place,' which offers a variety of culinary delights and retail options, along with an observation deck that boasts stunning views of the airfield.
- Terminal 2 also caters to domestic flights, primarily serviced by All Nippon Airways (ANA), Skymark Airlines, Air Do, and Solaseed Air. Like its counterparts at HND, Terminal 2 includes an extensive shopping and dining area, as well as an observation deck.
- Terminal 3 is the international terminal at HND, showcasing a sleek, modern design with a wide array of dining and shopping choices. Popular attractions within this terminal include the Edo Market Place and Tokyo Pop Town, along with the unique 'Water Shrine' art installation. If you plan to travel through Terminal 3 and have a long flight ahead, check out our tips on how to survive a long flight for a more comfortable journey.
Dining and Shopping Options
At Haneda Airport, travelers are spoiled for choice with a plethora of shopping and dining experiences that can rival those found in Tokyo itself.
The Tiat Duty-Free Shops in the international terminal are a treasure trove for travelers seeking tax-free bargains, featuring a wide range of products from luxury cosmetics and perfumes to premium spirits and tobacco. In Terminal 3, Tokyo Pop Town is a vibrant spot filled with anime, manga, and a variety of character merchandise. For more traditional items, Edo Ko-ji, also in Terminal 3, showcases an assortment of Japanese crafts and souvenirs that evoke the charm of old Tokyo. When shopping during your travels, be mindful not to overpack; it’s wise to familiarize yourself with carry-on and checked luggage requirements before you travel, as well as learning how to pack like a pro.
Dining at HND offers something for everyone. Tsurutontan, a well-known udon restaurant with a branch in Roppongi, is a favorite, while sushi enthusiasts can indulge at Matakoiya. The Edo Market Place also features numerous Japanese eateries serving everything from tempura to soba noodles.
A standout experience at Haneda is the chance to dine beneath a simulated starry sky at the Planetarium Starry Café in Terminal 3. This unique venue blends culinary delights with a celestial ambiance for a truly unforgettable meal.
Other Facilities
Haneda Airport boasts a range of standard amenities that travelers appreciate, including complimentary Wi-Fi across the terminals, currency exchange services, children's play areas, and several lounges. Additionally, there are designated relaxation zones and shower facilities available.
Narita International Airport
Narita International Airport (NRT), situated in Chiba Prefecture, serves as another major international gateway to Tokyo and is a key hub for international air travel in Japan. Since its inception in 1978, it has been pivotal in linking Japan with global destinations, handling a significant volume of international passengers and cargo flights.
Location
Narita International Airport is situated in Chiba Prefecture, approximately 37 miles (60 kilometers) east of downtown Tokyo, making it farther from the city center compared to Haneda Airport. However, this location can be quite advantageous for travelers heading to eastern Tokyo or areas like Chiba, Ibaraki, and even northern Tokyo Prefecture. Narita is also efficiently connected to the city via the JR Narita Express and Keisei Skyliner trains, providing quick access to various parts of Tokyo.
How to get there
The JR Narita Express (N'EX) and Keisei Skyliner provide the fastest routes to central Tokyo, taking about 50 minutes to reach Tokyo Station. Additionally, Airport Limousine and other bus services connect Narita to multiple locations throughout Tokyo and its surrounding areas, with taxis also available, though they can be quite expensive.
Terminals
- Narita's Terminal 1 is split into North and South Wings, each hosting various airline alliances and primarily catering to international carriers. This terminal boasts numerous dining and shopping options, ranging from high-end brands to traditional Japanese souvenirs. The North Wing is especially recognized for its impressive architectural design and spacious ambiance.
- Terminal 2 accommodates both domestic and international flights, focusing on airlines from the SkyTeam and Star Alliance, including Japan's flagship carrier, All Nippon Airways (ANA). It features an observation deck that offers sweeping views of the airport runways, making it a favorite spot for aviation enthusiasts.
- Narita's newest addition, Terminal 3, primarily caters to low-cost carriers and certain charter flights. This sleek terminal is distinguished by its playful blue running track design on the floor, guiding passengers to their gates in a unique way.
Shopping and dining
At Narita, the shopping and dining offerings are tailored to suit all travelers. In Terminal 1, Narita Nakamise provides a traditional shopping street vibe, featuring Japanese souvenirs like exquisite kimonos and beautifully crafted lacquerware. In Terminal 2, the electronics store Bic Camera fulfills every tech enthusiast's wish list. Additionally, luxury shoppers can explore the duty-free area, which showcases international fashion brands such as Gucci and Chanel.
Narita offers a wonderfully diverse dining scene. For sushi enthusiasts, Terminal 2's Sushi Kyotatsu is a standout, claiming to be the only airport restaurant that sources its tuna from the renowned wholesaler Ishiji. If you’re craving authentic Japanese ramen, Tomita in Terminal 1 serves up rich and flavorful bowls that are a must-try. Sweet lovers should make their way to Mi’z, a delightful fruit-centric dessert shop in Terminal 2 offering refreshing and healthy treats.
Other amenities
Narita International Airport is equipped with a variety of amenities to enhance passenger comfort. Travelers can enjoy free Wi-Fi across the terminals, alongside numerous currency exchange counters and designated play areas for families with children.
Haneda vs. Narita: Choosing the Right Airport for You
When deciding which Tokyo airport is preferable, consider factors such as distance to the city center, transportation options, and the available amenities and services. Here’s a comparison to guide you in choosing the airport that best fits your needs:
| Haneda Airport (HND) | Narita Airport (NRT) | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Distance to the city center: About 12 miles (20 km) [closer to city center] | Distance to the city center: About 37 miles (60 km) [further from city center] | ||
| Tokyo Monorail: 13 minutes to Hamamatsucho Station | JR Narita Express (N'EX): 50 minutes to Tokyo Station | ||
| Keikyu Line: Direct access to city | Keisei Skyliner: Fast access to city | ||
| Limousine Bus: Various locations | Limousine Bus: Various locations | ||
| Taxi: Available but expensive | Taxi: Available, more expensive due to distance | ||
| Flights: Predominantly domestic flights with growing international connections | Flights: Primarily international flights | ||
| Airlines: Mix of major airlines and low-cost carriers | Airlines: Wide range of international airlines and some domestic | ||
| Shopping: Wide range including luxury and traditional goods | Shopping: Extensive duty-free, souvenirs | ||
| Dining: Diverse, from fast food to gourmet restaurants | Dining: Wide variety, international and Japanese cuisine | ||
| Unique: Edo Market Place, Planetarium Starry Cafe, observation decks, silent terminal concept | Unique: Eight playgrounds, observation decks, sensory rooms for people with developmental disabilities |
Best Tokyo airport for your arrival: Key considerations
Haneda is ideal for travelers seeking quick access to central Tokyo or connecting to domestic flights within Japan. In contrast, Narita, although farther away, boasts a wider selection of international flights. This airport is better suited for those willing to travel longer to the city or who wish to explore nearby cultural sites, like the Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple. Ready to make a reservation? Check out Dinogo’s convenient flight guide for all the tools you need to plan your journey.
The creation process behind this guide
Having traveled over 200,000 miles each year, I've certainly spent my fair share of time in various airports—Tokyo being home to two of my top choices. I've navigated through Narita and Haneda numerous times during my extensive stays in Japan's capital. Tokyo is undeniably one of Japan's must-visit destinations, filled with experiences waiting to be discovered in the land of the rising sun. This guide compiles my best airport insights and practical information to assist you in choosing the ideal airport for your upcoming Japanese journey.
For those intending to explore more airports worldwide, the dedicated Airport guide from Dinogo offers a wealth of expert advice.
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